Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School in Liverpool has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection. The school provides a welcoming environment where all pupils feel included and cared for by staff who know them well. High expectations are set for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils typically leave Year 6 well-prepared for their next educational stage, demonstrating a strong commitment to learning and a willingness to tackle challenges.
Students enjoy their lessons and exhibit perseverance when faced with difficulties. The mutual respect between pupils and staff fosters a positive atmosphere, encouraging students to strive for success and impress their teachers. Breaktimes are harmonious, with pupils playing happily and demonstrating sensible behavior. The school environment is calm and purposeful, contributing to a strong sense of community among students who take pride in their school and recommend it to their friends.
The curriculum at Our Lady of the Assumption is ambitious, with a clear focus on essential knowledge across most subjects. Teachers possess secure subject knowledge, enabling them to design effective learning activities that help pupils retain information. Regular assessments allow teachers to monitor progress and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected some pupils' learning, resulting in a need for additional support to catch up on lost knowledge.
While the school excels in many areas, there are a few subjects where the curriculum does not clearly outline the key knowledge that should be taught. This gap can hinder some pupils from fully developing their understanding and connecting new concepts. The school has prioritized early reading, starting with engaging activities in the Nursery class and implementing a phonics program in Reception. Staff are well-trained to deliver this program effectively, and they collaborate with parents to support reading at home. However, there are instances where the reading materials do not align with pupils' phonics knowledge, which can lead to frustration for some students.
Pupils are kind and considerate, helping new classmates settle in quickly. They are attentive in lessons and eager to participate. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing them with the necessary support to succeed alongside their peers. Attendance is a significant focus, with the school actively monitoring records and implementing strategies to improve rates, resulting in a notable reduction in absences.
The school promotes personal development well, teaching pupils about diversity and encouraging empathy and kindness. Students engage in community activities, such as participating in the Liverpool Schools Parliament and performing in local venues to support charitable causes. Staff feel valued and supported, working collaboratively to ensure pupils achieve their best. The governing body plays an active role in understanding the school's strengths and weaknesses, providing both support and challenge to drive improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted the need for the school to ensure that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonics knowledge and to enhance the curriculum in a few subjects to provide clearer guidance for teachers. Overall, Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for all its students.
